Message from Mayor Richman Regarding IRONMAN Canada

Posted on June 28, 2017

Firstly, on behalf of Council, I’d like to thank all the residents who came out to Tuesday’s meeting to share your feedback. Council has really been struggling with this decision. Over the last few months, Council has been considering the impacts of supporting and not supporting the event. Particularly, if we don’t support the event, how does it still impact us? If we do support the event, how do we leverage the event as much as we can, while trying to mitigate the negative impacts?

Council hoped we could leverage the event and make it work in a positive way for the Community. However, due to the current condition of Pemberton Meadows Road, it would be irresponsible for us to support an event without significant improvements to the cycling infrastructure.

As a result, of Tuesday’s Council Meeting, the Village of Pemberton Council rescinded our support of the event, and made a resolution to not support the use of Pemberton Meadows Road for IRONMAN Canada following the 2017 Event. To be clear, this decision was not about whether Council supported IRONMAN itself; we embrace the nature of the event. The passion and commitment of the athletes is inspiring. This decision was rooted in the concern for public safety, and in the hopes of trying to mitigate the potential of someone getting injured, or worse.

Please be assured, the conversation is not ending here. We will work with our regional partners, to advocate for improved cycling infrastructure and improved road conditions so we can continue to serve our residents and foster our thriving Tourism sector.

With all this in mind, lets remember there’s a level of personal responsibility too. Please share the road and respect one another.

If you would like to discuss further, I’m available by email (mrichman@pemberton.ca) or phone (604.966.6309). Please contact me anytime.